Ideate, Build, Launch

Here’s your formula towards successful entrepreneurship. Idea Launcher is a 6-month ideation program organised by AWS, designed to empower early-stage technology startups through cloud adoption, product development, mentorship and guidance. Selected startups can enjoy up to US$25,000 AWS Promotional Credits*, exclusive pathway to the HKSTP Ideation Program with HK$100,000 financial grants. Join us to discover opportunities that help shape your idea for the next stage of growth.

*AWS Activate credits are subject to the AWS Promotional Credit Terms & Conditions, startups previously issued AWS Promotional Credit may not be eligible to receive additional credit

Cloud Credit and Additional Benefits
Start building your business with AWS Promotional Credits, eligible startups could receive benefits from HKSTP Ideation Program as well.
Dedicated Support
Receive startup guidance through 1-to-1 Office Hours with AWS Solutions Architects and business experts.
Tailored Training
Access training content on AWS Skill Builders to kickstart your entrepreneurship journey. Learn about Cloud business essentials, building your SaaS product, and many more.
Customized Workshop
Experience first-hand how we innovate at AWS with the Working Backwards approach towards product development, and set up your own business for success. 
Advance Your Growth
We are committed to cultivating big, innovative ideas. Upon graduation, eligible startups may go for the next step: HKSTP Incubation Program.
Maximize Your Network
Be connected with other founders and customers from the AWS Startups Program.  Learn from the best and sell to the mass market or the corporate world.

We are looking for tech-driven entrepreneurs fulfilling the following requirements. Join us if you are:

  • An HKID holder aged 18 or above, OR;
  • Incorporated as a limited business in Hong Kong for less than 2 years prior to the application start date, OR;
  • A team looking to earn startup support* AND
  • Not previously or currently enrolled in any other local ideation / incubation / acceleration program (e.g. Cyberport / HKSTP) (Exceptions: University startup programs)

*It is required to have a limited company incorporated in Hong Kong before the official program start date.


What We Offer
Cloud Credit and Additional Benefits
Start building your business with AWS Promotional Credits, eligible startups could receive benefits from HKSTP Ideation Program as well.
Dedicated Support
Receive startup guidance through 1-to-1 Office Hours with AWS Solutions Architects and business experts.
Tailored Training
Access training content on AWS Skill Builders to kickstart your entrepreneurship journey. Learn about Cloud business essentials, building your SaaS product, and many more.
Customised Workshop
Experience first-hand how we innovate at AWS with the Working Backwards approach towards product development, and set up your own business for success. 
Continue Your Growth
We are committed to cultivating big, innovative ideas. Upon graduation, eligible startups may go for the next step: HKSTP Incubation Program.
Maximise Your Network
Be connected with other founders and customers from the AWS Startups Program.  Learn from the best and sell to the mass market or the corporate world.

Is This Program Right For You?

We are looking for tech-driven entrepreneurs fulfilling the following requirements. Join us if you are:

  • An HKID holder aged 18 or above, OR;
  • Incorporated as a limited business in Hong Kong for less than 2 years prior to the application start date, OR;
  • A team looking to earn startup support* AND
  • Not previously or currently enrolled in any other local ideation / incubation / acceleration program (e.g. Cyberport / HKSTP) (Exceptions: University startup programs)

*It is required to have a limited company incorporated in Hong Kong before the official program start date.


What Happens at Idea Launcher?

This is a 6-month ideation program consisting of business and technical training, and will require you to complete the program milestones.^

2

Nov – Dec, 2022

Application period is open until 20 December, 2022 23:59

3

Jan – Feb, 2023

Applications are reviewed, selected applicants are invited for panel interview

4

Mar – May, 2023

Kick-off Idea Launcher; Learn, dream and build together

5

Sep, 2023 – Milestone 2^

Present prototype, get pilot feedback, and continue to grow beyond

5

Jun – Aug, 2023

Continue to build and improve the idea and prototype

5

May – Jun, 2023 – Milestone 1^

Midway review with pitch video and report

^We value commitment from successful applicants. Failure to reach the milestone(s) may result in losing program grants and benefits. AWS reserves the final right to grant, change and terminate application offers.


Get Ready For Blast-off!

Application Procedures

Submit an Online Application Form along with your company pitch deck for our evaluation before application deadline 23:59, 20 December, 2022 (Tuesday). The pitch deck should include but not limit to key information such as the problem, your solution, business model, addressable market size etc.

Admission Criteria

The Idea Launcher panelists will assess your application and pitch deck during the initial evaluation. Shortlisted applicants will be subject to final review by the admission panel before official acceptance.

  • The Idea Launcher panelists will assess your application and pitch deck during the initial evaluation. Shortlisted applicants will be invited to an interview by the admission panel before official acceptance.
  • Admitted applicants/teams will be notified individually before 28 February, 2023. Submitting an application does not guarantee successful program enrollment.

FAQs


Q. How do I submit my business idea to apply for Idea Launcher?

Q. Can I apply for the Idea Launcher program as a single-person applicant?

Q. Can I apply for the program without programming knowledge or cloud technology background?

Q. When will I be notified of the application status upon application completion?

Q. When and where will the training be delivered? What would be the training content?

Q. Am I guaranteed to obtain HK$100,000 financial grants upon successful application for Idea Launcher Program?

Q. How do I contact the organizer?

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